This project was a game changer for us to showcase that we could get the vision translated on ground against odds of time and multiplicity of decision makers and execution agencies, meeting the deadline of the Commomweath Games, Delhi 2010. Spread across an area of 5.2 million square feet, Terminal 3 (T3) is the state of the art terminal of Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, India. The Landscape concept for Terminal3 (T3) and its adjoining areas is based on the notion of flight. It is celebratory, monumental and dynamic in nature. The landscape journey from the junction of the city link and central spine begins at ‘the vortex’ which is designed to catch the wind emulating ‘take off’. Angular water features are located at significant junctions which add to the passengers’ experience. The planting scheme and lighting effects add further impact to the day and night time ambience.
But what makes this project special in our repertoire is that our role was of a project management partner for probably one of the largest landscape budgets so far allocated for a public project in 2007-8. We developed exertise in reporting on an Engineering Procurement Construction (EPC) format to Senior DIAL Management. What is also a major learning is on site application of landscape engineering for drainage, construction of geotherm earth mounds over DMRC metro tunnels. The tight time span, pressure of completion and multi party coordination made this one of the most challenging and memorable projects for our team.
We were responsible for the exterior as well as interior landscape for the new Terminal. Our primary role was delivery of the landscape to required time and quality.
When we inherited the site it had but one solitary tree. To fulfill the client’s vision, pre procurement nurseries were set up and a system established for sourcing plant material from other parts of the country and parts of South East Asia. The choice of plant materials was made based on reducing bird menace as well as keeping in view the client’s vision to make a distinctly recognizable landscape. There are nearly 227 exterior and 198 interior plant varieties used in this project, taking into consideration a varied plant palette, growth patterns and required maintenance regime.
This contract was signed with EDAW, a leading design firm worldwide, which eventually was merged with AECOM during the life of this project. Post The Games, we were employed as direct Consultants to GMR till December 2010.
Client |
GMR DIAL |
Primary Consultants |
EDAW/AECOM, Hong Kong |
Area |
Exterior: 32 acres / 3.5 Km, Interior: Terminal 3 Passenger Terminal Building and International and Domestic Piers |
Completion |
2008-2010 |